DESIGN & ENGINEERING
At D/MO we specialise in the Design For Manufacture (DFM) of composite components. We apply experience working on a wide range of projects in the Aerospace, Formula 1, and Sustainable material sectors to bring your ideas to life. Every aspect of the product development process needs to feed into the next. It isn't useful to have a beautiful design that is not functional or manufacturable, Nor is it sensible to create an innovative product that costs too much to produce.
We offer a flexible service tailored to your project needs, in most cases, our product development process follows these steps.
3D CAD Modelling - Creating 3D models of your idea or concept sketch allows clear discussion around design features as we are able to visualise all product elements accurately.
Prototyping - To develop product features and assure efficient manufacturability, prototypes are created. This allows a hands-on, tangible connection to the development process, quick turnaround and low-cost design changes.
Manufacture study - Once the product design is complete we create the lean manufacturing process required to create your product at a market viable price point.
COMPRESSION MOULDING
Hot compression moulding is the process of curing engineered composite layups inside the cavity of a closed mould. This is normally a two part machined aluminum tool. Pressure is applied and maintained to consolidate the layup throughout the curing process. Heat is applied to control the cure speed. Compression moulded parts offer a double “A” side finish. That being two aesthetic sides. This process offers excellent mechanical properties through low void content and high fiber volume fraction.
INFUSION
Resin infusion is the process of pulling resin through dry laminate under vacuum while in a single sided mould. It is a great option for large components or thin laminates. It generally has lower tooling costs, and offers great surface finish. Infusion can be a cost effective manufacturing process for low volume components. It is mainly suitable for components with an “A” and “B” side. This being an aesthetic side (A) and a textured face (B).
MATERIALS
Suitable material selection is a key factor in effective composite design. How you then develop the manufacturing process around this material is often what dictates the commercial viability of the product. There are many variables involved in the curing of composite materials. There can be a complex relationship between these elements which need to be optimised to produce a successful component. The work to decipher the effect of each variable on the output is one reason working with composite materials can be so challenging.
CNC MACHINING
We offer 3 axis CNC machining of composite components in house. When paired with our infusion or compression moulding services, we can create bespoke components designed specifically to meet your requirements. We can also organise more complex 5 axis machining of composites along with any metallic or plastic components included in larger assemblies.
ASSEMBLY
Often an assembly containing a composite component will be sent out to multiple companies for quotation. Most of the time the composite part is the largest manufacturing challenge and the interaction with the other parts in the assembly is key. D/MO are happy to take on the assembly as a whole. We have found this can help streamline the product development process, as well as saving our clients both time and money.
BESPOKE BUILDS & COMPONENTS
If you like our Motorcycles and wish to commission your own build get in contact. We can build around a supplied donor or source one for you. Let's start talking about your dream bike today.
If you are interested in D/MO specific components for your project we can do that too. That could be Carbon Fibre parts, custom exhaust systems or 3D printed parts to finish off your build. If you have seen something we have created that you like, we would love to know. Hopefully we can create something similar for you.
